Criminal

The Superior Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor and felony criminal charges. Misdemeanors are offenses
generally punishable by fine and/or county jail term, and felonies are generally punishable by imprisonment in the
State prison and/or fines, or even the death penalty. The Court conducts arraignments where accused individuals are informed of the specific charges against them and are advised of their rights. The Court holds preliminary hearings on felony charges to determine if there is sufficient evidence to require a defendant to stand trials.

Criminal General Information

Things You Should Bring to Court

Identification which could include a valid Driver's License, Social Security Card, picture identification, etc.

Copy of citation, if applicable

Appearance letter, if applicable

Any receipts regarding the case, such as bond receipts, cash bail receipts, etc.

Jail release papers, if applicable

Any documents which prove that you have complied with the judicial orders and/or sentencing

Cash, personal check or postal money order to pay for fines and fees

Do not use any nickname or alias; use the same spelling as listed on documents related to the case, and ensure spelling listed on documents is correct - if they are not, advise the Court

Warning: If you fail to appear in Court as promised, a bench warrant may be issued and may result in your being arrested and/or punished by JAIL AND/OR A FINE.

What Occurs in a Misdemeanor Case?

Misdemeanors are primarily offenses with a maximum punishment of a $1,000 fine and a county jail term of 1 year or less. However, there are some offenses which can carry a higher maximum fine.

An arrest is made - police take the defendant to jail (or released on signed citation in the field). If the defendant is arrested and given a date to appear in court, three things can happen:

The defendant is released - no charges are filed

The defendant posts bail or is released on his own recognizance ("OR") and is scheduled for arraignment

The defendant remains in custody of the Sheriff /law enforcement agency and is brought to Court for arraignment

Arraignment & Plea - Defendant is brought to court.

Defendant informed of charges

Defendant is informed of his/her constitutional rights

An attorney is retained by the defendant. If the defendant wishes to have an attorney but cannot afford one of his/her choice, the Court may appoint one.

Bail is set by the Court. Defendant is released on "own recognizance", or remains in custody if unable to post bail.

or...

Defendant enters a plea - guilty, not guilty, or no contest

Not Guilty

The defendant states that he/she did not commit the crime. The case is set for a future hearing.

Guilty or No Contest

Guilty - The defendant admits that he/she did commit the crime No Contest - The defendant will not contest the charge. It has the same effect as a guilty plea except that the conviction cannot be used against the defendant in a civil suit.
If the defendant pleads Guilty or No Contest, the case is resolved at the time of arraignment. This will include any fines/fees and/or court-ordered programs imposed by the judge.

Pre-Trial Proceedings After a Not Guilty Plea

Discovery is exchanged between the prosecution and the defense attorneys. This includes police reports, blood test results, photographs, etc.

Motions may be filed to set aside the complaint, to dismiss the case, or to suppress evidence, etc.

Defendant may change his/her plea to guilty or no-contest

A hearing will be held to attempt to settle the case without going to trial.